The Australian Government has issued a comprehensive travel alert for the entire Middle East region, warning citizens about increasing risks due to the escalating Israel-Lebanon conflict. The alert, issued on Sunday, cautions that tensions could impact neighboring countries and cause significant disruptions to flight routes.

Rising Middle East Travel Concerns

On its Smartraveller website, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated travel advisories for several countries, including the United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Yemen, Syria, Iran, and Iraq. A similar advisory was updated for Saudi Arabia on 30 September.

Even countries with lower risk, like Qatar and Oman, received warnings urging travelers to “exercise normal safety precautions.”

According to Smartraveller, “The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East.” The update also warned of a heightened risk of attacks against Israeli interests across the region, alongside possible demonstrations and rapid changes in local security situations.

Airspace Closures and Travel Disruptions

Travelers may face disruptions, including airspace closures, flight cancellations, and diversions, as the conflict could impact air traffic throughout the region. DFAT has also updated its travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, urging Australians to reconsider their need to travel to these areas due to the volatile security situation.

For those already in Israel, DFAT recommends reconsidering their need to remain, advising them to leave if it is safe to do so. The warning extends to Gaza, border areas with Gaza and Lebanon, and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem), where the risk of missile and rocket attacks remains high.

Evacuation Plans for Australians in Lebanon

As the situation worsens, the Australian Government is working with its citizens in Lebanon to help them secure seats on commercial flights, given the possibility of Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport shutting down. Currently, Middle East Airlines is the only major airline still operating in Beirut.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong took to social media to address concerns, stating that Australians wishing to leave Lebanon should register on DFAT’s portal. She acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, including the challenges in securing flights amid cancellations. DFAT is in direct communication with registered Australians, offering assistance and urging them to depart at the first available opportunity.

“There is a risk Beirut airport may close for an extended period,” Wong said. “We continue to urge Australians in Lebanon to take the first opportunity they can to depart. Please do not wait for a preferred route.”

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